Protective material applicator device

ABSTRACT

Devices, methods and systems disclosed herein relate to the application of a protective film on a surface of an electronic device that instantly reduces air bubbles and eliminates the waiting time usually required when using a wet fluid solution. In one embodiment, a roller device may include a carriage or housing and one or more rollers coupled or integrated with the housing, configured to apply a protective material to a surface of the electronic device in a first orientation, and configured to function as a device stand in a second orientation. In addition or alternatively, a roller guide apparatus and/or a wedge may be utilized to assist the roller device in applying the protective material to the surface of the electronic device.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/804,246, entitled “PROTECTIVE MATERIAL APPLICATOR DEVICE” filed onJul. 20, 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 13/794,414 entitled “PROTECTIVE MATERIAL APPLICATOR DEVICE” filed onMar. 11, 2013, which is continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/208,264 entitled “PROTECTIVE MATERIAL APPLICATOR DEVICE” filed onAug. 11, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,393,377, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/053,081entitled “PROTECTIVE MATERIAL APPLICATOR DEVICE” filed on Mar. 21, 2011,now U.S. Pat. No. 8,905,107, which in turn claims the benefit of and thepriority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/444,597 filed on Feb.18, 2011. The entire contents of all of these applications are herebyincorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

Field

The present invention relates to an apparatus, method and/or system forapplying a protective material or layer to a surface of a device. Forexample, the present invention may allow a user to apply a protectivematerial or layer to the surface or screen of an electronic device.

Description of Related Art

Electronic devices such as cellular phones, portable tablet computersand the like are gaining widespread popularity. For example, the Apple®iPhone® is estimated to reach 100 million users by the end of 2011. Inaddition, almost 15 million Apple® iPads® have been sold to date. Thesheer volume of electronic devices sold by other major competitors suchas Motorola®, Samsung®, HTC®, etc. only further confirms that consumersfind these products very desirable. It should not come as a surprisethat these same consumers want to protect their products from accidentaldenting, scratching or otherwise damaging these electronic devices.Accordingly, manufacturers have produced different cases, protectivefilms and the like to help the consumer keep their electronic devicessafe.

However, with the progress of touch-based screens for operating theseelectronic devices, thick cases might not be suitable, as these casesmay prevent the user from operating the device. Accordingly, manymanufacturers are now producing clear films that keep, for example, thedisplay of the electronic device clean while at the same time protectingthe screen from accidental damage such as scratching.

Despite the benefits that these films or screen protectors provide, manydrawbacks remain in this relatively new technology. For example, many ofthese protectors require the use of a wet fluid solution to enable thefilm to adhere to the electronic device. Using a wet fluid solution ismessy, requires a lot of work by the user to “squeegee” the excess out,and might not eliminate all annoying air bubbles immediately. Indeed,many of these products warn that 24-48 hours may be needed before theuser can effectively determine if the trapped air bubbles are going todisappear. In other words, some consumers may have to wait for daysbefore determining if the film was applied correctly. To some consumers,this long wait is annoying and may reduce the enthusiasm of an otherwiseexciting moment of obtaining a cutting-edge electronic device. Moreover,the electronic device might not be functional until the solution driesout in 24-48 hours. Alternatively, the consumer might not want to riskusing the device in fear during this time period as he or she maybelieve that usage may impact the film prior to drying of the wet fluidsolution.

What is needed is an applicator that eliminates the drawbacks above andallows a user to apply the protective film effectively for use withoutwaiting for the protective film to dry and/or waiting for the airbubbles to disappear.

SUMMARY

Devices, methods and systems are provided to apply a protective film ona surface of an electronic device which reduces or eliminates airbubbles and eliminates the waiting time usually required when using awet fluid solution.

In one embodiment, a roller apparatus may be used in a protective filmapplication process to eliminate air bubbles and assist the user inapplying the film to the electronic device correctly. The rollerapparatus may include a carriage or housing, one or more rollers coupledto or integrated with the housing and a splitter configured to separatethe protective film from a backing material during the applicationprocess.

In one embodiment, the roller apparatus may be configured to bemaneuvered into position with the splitter between the exposed portionof the protective film and the backing With the roller portion of theroller apparatus trailing behind. As the user pulls the roller apparatusfrom a first edge of the electronic device to a second edge of theelectronic device, the protective film may be removed from the backing,applied to the device, and any air bubbles may be immediately squeezedout such that in one motion the protective film may be applied to theelectronic device without the use of a wet fluid solution.

In one embodiment, a method of applying the protective film to anelectronic device is provided. For example, first, a user may remove oneedge of the protective film from a backing and line up the removed edgeof the protective film with the corresponding edge of the electronicdevice. No wet fluid solution is sprayed on or applied to the surface orscreen of the electronic device. Next, the roller apparatus may bemaneuvered into position with the splitter between the exposed portionof the protective film and the backing with the roller portion of theroller apparatus trailing behind. As the user pulls the roller apparatusfrom a first edge of the electronic device to a second edge of theelectronic device, the protective film may be removed from the backing,applied to the device, and any air bubbles may be immediately eliminatedsuch that in one motion the protective film may be applied to theelectronic device without the use of a wet fluid solution.

In one embodiment, for example, where the protective film includes anoverlay portion intended to be pressed down on the sides perpendicularor orthogonal to the main surface, the user may press the protectivefilm down on the intended, corresponding areas and use the rollerportion of the roller apparatus to further press down on the protectivefilm.

In one embodiment, a roller apparatus may include an integrated standfor propping up or holding the electronic device. In a first operationalconfiguration, the roller apparatus may be used in a protective filmapplication process to eliminate air bubbles and assist the user inapplying the film to the electronic device correctly. In a secondoperational configuration, the roller apparatus may be used as a standfor propping up the electronic device. The roller apparatus may includea carriage or housing, one or more rollers coupled or integrated withthe housing and a stand portion for propping up the electronic device.

In one embodiment, to further assist the user in applying the protectivefilm, a roller apparatus guide may be used in conjunction with a rollerapparatus. The roller apparatus guide may be a substantially rectangularblock having three or more portions including an inner wall defining acavity used to receive or mount a mobile communication device, a rollersupporting surface configured to be flush with a mounted mobilecommunication device and a set of roller guiding rails which may beparallel to one another and raised above the roller supporting surface.In addition, the roller apparatus guide may include pressing portions toassist the user when applying the protective film.

In one embodiment, a film application system may include a rollerapparatus, a roller apparatus guide, a mobile communication device, aprotective film to be applied to a mobile communication device, and awedge. Here, a wedge is incorporated to help the user apply the film tothe mobile communication device. The wedge may be substantiallytriangular in shape, although minor variations are allowed provided thatthe functionality of the wedge remains. The wedge may comprise threeadjacent, connected surfaces forming the structure of the wedge. Thespacing created -by the connecting of surfaces may be hollow or, in oneembodiment, may be filled. The wedge may function to assist in removingthe backing of the film during the film application process.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features, obstacles, and advantages of the present invention willbecome more apparent from the detailed description set forth below whentaken in conjunction with the drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a roller apparatus, a protective film and anelectronic device according to one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 2A illustrates a top view of a roller apparatus according to one ormore embodiments described herein;

FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view of a roller apparatus accordingto one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 2C illustrates a side perspective view of a roller apparatusaccording to one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 2D illustrates a front perspective view of a roller apparatusaccording to one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 2E illustrates a rear perspective view of a roller apparatusaccording to one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 2F illustrates a bottom view of a roller apparatus according to oneor more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 2G illustrates a cross-sectional view of the first roller accordingto one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 3A illustrates a protective material set-up configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 3B illustrates a roller apparatus set-up configuration according toone or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 3C illustrates a roller apparatus operation configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of a roller apparatus accordingto one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 4B illustrates a roller apparatus operation configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of a roller apparatus accordingto one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 5B illustrates a roller apparatus operation configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 6A illustrates a roller apparatus with an integrated stand, aprotective film, a film tab and an electronic device according to one ormore embodiments described herein;

FIG. 6B illustrates a roller apparatus with an integrated stand in afirst operation configuration according to one or more embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIG. 6C illustrates a roller apparatus with an integrated stand in asecond operation configuration according to one or more embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIG. 6D illustrates a side view of the roller apparatus of FIG. 6Caccording to one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 6E illustrates a protective material set-up configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 6F illustrates a protective material set-up configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 6G illustrates a roller apparatus operation configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective top view of a roller apparatus with anintegrated stand according to one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective bottom view of a roller apparatus withan integrated stand according to one or more embodiments describedherein;

FIG. 7C illustrates a perspective side view of a roller apparatus withan integrated stand according to one or more embodiments describedherein;

FIG. 7D illustrates a perspective rear view of a roller apparatus withan integrated stand according to one or more embodiments describedherein;

FIG. 7E illustrates a perspective front view of a roller apparatus withan integrated stand according to one or more embodiments describedherein;

FIG. 8A illustrates a roller apparatus with an integrated stand in afirst operation configuration according to one or more embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIG. 8B illustrates a roller apparatus with an integrated stand in asecond operation configuration according to one or more embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIG. 8C illustrates a perspective bottom view of a roller apparatus withan integrated stand according to one or more embodiments describedherein;

FIG. 8D illustrates a roller apparatus operation configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 8E illustrates a roller apparatus operation configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 8F illustrates a roller apparatus operation configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 8G illustrates a roller apparatus operation configuration accordingto one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 9A illustrates a roller guiding apparatus according to one or moreembodiments described herein;

FIG. 9B illustrates a roller guiding apparatus with a film attachedprior to mounting of the mobile communication device according to one ormore embodiments described herein;

FIG. 9C illustrates a roller guiding apparatus with the mobilecommunication device mounted according to one or more embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIG. 9D illustrates a roller guiding apparatus with the mobilecommunication device mounted and with a roller applying a film on themobile communication device according to one or more embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIG. 9E illustrates a roller guiding apparatus with the mobilecommunication device mounted and with a roller almost completed withapplying a film on the mobile communication device according to one ormore embodiments described herein;

FIG. 9F illustrates a film tab removal process according to one or moreembodiments described herein;

FIG. 9G illustrates removing the mobile communication device from theroller guiding apparatus according to one or more embodiments describedherein;

FIG. 9H illustrates reinforcement of the applied film by using theroller after the mobile communication device is removed from the rollerguiding apparatus according to one or more embodiments described herein;

FIG. 10A illustrates a roller apparatus, a mobile communication device,a film to be applied to the mobile communication device, a rollerapparatus guide and a wedge according to one or more embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIG. 10B illustrates the wedge of FIG. 10A according to one or moreembodiments described herein;

FIG. 10C illustrates the wedge of FIG. 10A according to one or moreembodiments described herein;

FIG. 10D illustrates the wedge of FIG. 10A according to one or moreembodiments described herein;

FIG. 10E illustrates the wedge of FIG. 10A according to one or moreembodiments described herein;

FIG. 10F illustrates a roller guiding apparatus with the mobilecommunication device mounted and with a roller apparatus initiallypositioned prior to the applying of a film on the mobile communicationdevice with the assistance of a wedge according to one or moreembodiments described herein;

FIG. 10G illustrates a roller guiding apparatus with the mobilecommunication device mounted and with a roller apparatus initiallypositioned to apply a film on the mobile communication device with theassistance of a wedge according to one or more embodiments describedherein;

FIG. 10H illustrates a roller guiding apparatus with the mobilecommunication device mounted and with a roller apparatus beingmaneuvered to apply the film on the mobile communication device with theassistance of a wedge according to one or more embodiments describedherein;

FIG. 10I illustrates a roller guiding apparatus with the mobilecommunication device mounted and with a roller apparatus moving thewedge during the application of a film to the mobile communicationdevice according to one or more embodiments described herein; and

FIG. 10J illustrates a roller guiding apparatus with the mobilecommunication device mounted and with a roller apparatus positioned toapply a film on the mobile communication device with wedge located atthe bottom portion of the mobile communication device according to oneor more embodiments described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Apparatus, systems and/or methods that implement the embodiments of thevarious features of the present invention will now be described withreference to the drawings. The drawings and the associated descriptionsare provided to illustrate some embodiments of the present invention andnot to limit the scope of the present invention. Throughout thedrawings, reference numbers are re-used to indicate correspondencebetween referenced elements.

FIG. 1 illustrates a roller apparatus 100, an electronic device 135 anda film 150. The roller apparatus 100 may be used to apply the film 150to a surface of the electronic device 135. The film 150 may protect theelectronic device 135 from damage (e.g., scratches) and/or smudges. Asshown, the roller apparatus 100 may have a width wider than the width ofthe electronic device 135 and the film 150. In this manner, the rollerapparatus 100 may be configured to apply films of varying sizes ontodevices of varying sizes. In addition, the roller apparatus 100 may beconfigured to apply the film 150 to a device with a curved surface (notshown). In one embodiment, the roller apparatus 100 may be increased insize or decreased in size (along with the appropriate proportions) forusage with significantly larger films and devices (e.g., a tablet PC).

FIG. 2A illustrates one embodiment of a roller apparatus 200. As shown,the roller apparatus 200 may include a roller base or carriage 205, afirst or front roller 210, a second or back roller 215, a mid-bar 220, afirst or left splitter 225 and a second or right splitter 230. Theroller base 205 may be constructed out of a rigid material such as aplastic, a metal, a wood and the like. The roller base 205 is configuredto provide structural support for the roller apparatus 200. In addition,the roller base 205 may be sized to be easily manipulated and graspableby a user's hand. The roller base 205 may be configured to hold thefirst roller 210 in place and allow the first roller 210 to “roll” orrotate about a longitudinal axis created by the roller base 205. In oneexample, the roller base 205 may be structured to include a first rodmember (not shown) spanning the entire length of the first roller 210,thereby forming an axis for the first roller 210 to rotate about. Thefirst roller 210 is configured to rotate and apply physical pressure ona film (e.g., film 150 of FIG. 1) in operation. The first roller 210 maybe separated from the mid bar 220 by a first roller gap 235 and may befurther separated from the first splitter 225 and the second splitter230 by a splitter gap 245. These gaps (e.g., the first roller gap 235and the splitter gap 245) may serve as structural openings to allow thefirst roller 210 to rotate freely. The second roller 215 may be aredundant pressure applicator and may be substantially the same size as,and substantially parallel to the first roller 210. The first roller 210and the second roller 215 may be separated by a mid bar 220. The mid bar220 may connect the two ends of the roller base 205 and provide theentire roller apparatus with stability. In addition, a gap 240 may existbetween the mid bar 220 the second roller 215 to allow the second roller215 to rotate freely. The first splitter 225 and the second splitter 230may lie along the same plane and may be slightly curved. The splitters225 and 230 may be configured to be rigid and may function to separatean adhesive portion of a film (e.g., film 150) from its non-adhesivebacking during the application process.

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the roller apparatus 200. In oneembodiment, the roller apparatus 200 may be configured to function as afilm applicator for phone-sized devices and may have a length of 1-2inches, a width of 2-4 inches, and a height of 0.5-1 inch. In oneembodiment, the roller apparatus 200 may be configured to function as afilm applicator for tablet-sized devices and may have a length of 1-5inches, a width of 8-12 inches, and a height of 0.5-2 inches. Otherdimensions are also possible depending on the size of the device to beprotected and/or depending on the size of the film to be applied.

FIG. 2C is a side perspective view of the roller apparatus 200. Asshown, the rollers 210 and 215 may include inner cores 255 and 260,respectively. In addition, the rollers 210 and 215 may include outercores 265 and 270, respectively. In one embodiment, the outer cores 265and 270 may be configured to “flatten” at the point of contact andthereby providing pressure in a more uniform and distributed manner,efficiently eliminating air bubbles. The outer cores 265 and 270 may beconfigured to return to its original configuration when not pressed tothe surface of the device (e.g., electronic device 135).

In one embodiment, the mid bar 220 may be curved or straight, and mayhave a length substantially equivalent to the length of the rollers 210and 215, thereby joining the two ends of the roller base 205.Additionally, the mid bar 220 may be configured to have a width shorterthan a diameter of the outer cores 265 and 270. In this manner, the midbar 220 provides structural support to the roller apparatus 200 withoutcontacting the film (e.g., film 150) or the device (e.g., electronicdevice 135) during the application process.

In one embodiment, the splitters 225 and 230 may be located adjacent tothe first roller 210. The splitters 225 and 230 may jut inward from theroller base 205 so as not to extend the footprint of the rollerapparatus 200. In addition, the splitters 225 and 230 may function toremove the non-adhesive backing from the adhesive portion of the film(e.g., film 150) during an application process. While shown to be two,distinct parallel elements, the splitters 225 and 230 may be joinedtogether (e.g., by extending the splitters 225 and 230 towards oneanother) and/or may be constructed as one piece. The splitters 225 and230 may be constructed out of any material with sturdiness sufficientenough to separate and remove the adhesive portion of the film (e.g.,film 150) from a non-adhesive backing. In one embodiment, the splitters225 and 230 may be curved and formed in the shape of a “C” as shown inFIG. 2C. The curvature (“C” shape) of the splitters 225 and 230 mayadvantageously increase the ease of by which the non-adhesive backingfrom the adhesive portion of the film (e.g., film 150) is removed.However, other configurations are possible. For example, a “letteropener” configuration where the splitters 225 and 230 include taperededges may be utilized.

While described in FIG. 2C to have inner cores 255 and 260, certainembodiments of the roller apparatus 200 might not include inner cores255 and 260. In one embodiment, the roller apparatus 200 may compriseany number of rollers (e.g., one roller—by removing the second roller215, three rollers—by extending the width of roller base 205 and addinga third roller, etc.) In one embodiment, the roller apparatus 200 maycomprises two parts, a roller (e.g., the first roller 210) and a base(e.g., the roller base 205), wherein the base may include an integratedmid bar (e.g., mid bar 220) and a splitter (e.g., splitters 225 and230).

FIGS. 2D, 2E and 2F show other various views of one embodiment of theroller apparatus 200.

FIG. 2G illustrates a cross-sectional view of the first roller 210. Allprinciples of the first roller 210 discussed herein may be equallyapplicable to the second roller 215. As shown, the outer core 265 maywrap the entirety of the inner core 255. In addition, the inner core 255may have a substantially smaller diameter than the outer core 265. Inone embodiment, the inner core 255 may be constructed out of a rigidmaterial such as metal, wood, a hard plastic, etc. The outer core 265may be constructed out of a different, non-rigid or semi-rigid materialsuch as a rubber, a soft plastic or a polymer. In one embodiment, thematerial used to construct the inner core 255 may be the same as thematerial used to construct the outer core 265. However, in oneembodiment, the densities of the material may be different. For example,the materials used to construct the outer core 265 may be less denseand/or have a lower durometer rating. By having a softer outer core 265,the roller apparatus 200 may be able to press the film (e.g., film 150)onto the device (e.g., electronic device 135) without causing surfacedamage. The softer material of the outer core 265 also helps to moreeffectively and advantageously remove the air bubbles between the film150 and the screen of the electronic device 135.

Turning to FIG. 3A, an operation of the application process will now bediscussed. As shown, a user may apply part of an adhesive portion 355 ofa film 350 by removing a part of the backing portion 360 of the film 350and lining up the adhesive portion 355 to a surface (e.g., a screen) ofan electronic device 335. The roller apparatus 300 might not be used inthis initial set-up step.

Next, as shown in FIG. 3B, the roller apparatus 300 may be configuredand placed into position for operation. More particularly, the rollerapparatus 300 may be placed on top of the film 300 and electronic device335 with the splitters 325 and 330 between the adhesive portion 355 andthe backing portion 360.

Once the roller apparatus 300 is in position, the user may place onehand on the electronic device 335 (for stability) and use the other handto push (and roll) the film 350 onto the surface of the electronicdevice 335 by moving the roller apparatus 300 in a downward direction380. As the roller apparatus 300 moves in the downward direction 380,one or more rollers 310 and 315 press the adhesive portion 355 of thefilm 350 onto the electronic device 335 and squeeze out any air bubblesthat may be trapped between the film 350 and the electronic device 335.Contemporaneously, the splitters 325 and 330 provide a guide for thefilm 350 (i.e., “lead the way”) and remove the backing portion 360 ofthe film 350, thereby progressively providing more of the adhesiveportion 355 of the film 350 for the rollers 310 and 315 to press downon.

After the roller apparatus 300 is pulled through, across or over thelength of the electronic device 335, the adhesive portion 355 of thefilm 350 may be pressed onto the electronic device 335 and the user doesnot have to perform any other functions with respect to the surface withthe applied adhesive portion 355.

Depending on the design of the film 350, this may conclude theapplication process. However, in certain embodiments, where the film 350includes “overhanging” portions, the user may simply press theseportions down onto the sides of the electronic device 335 to concludethe application process.

In this manner, the user does not have to use a squeegee, wet solution,etc. to remove the air bubbles or to apply the adhesive portion 355 ofthe film 350 onto the electronic device 335 and the entire applicationprocess may be improved with respect to, for example, cleanliness, easeof use and convenience.

FIG. 4A illustrates one embodiment of a roller apparatus 400. The rollerapparatus 400 may include an apparatus body 405, a first roller 410inserted into the apparatus body 405 and held in place by via hole 425(and its paired hole—not shown). The roller apparatus 400 may alsoinclude a second roller (not shown) held in place by hole 430 (and itspaired hold—not shown). The roller apparatus 400 may also include asplitter bar 415 and a mid bar 420. The mid bar 420 may be configured tospan the length of the first roller 410 and may provide structuralsupport to the roller apparatus 400.

FIG. 4B illustrates how the roller apparatus 400 may be used to apply aprotective material 450 onto a device 435. The splitter bar 415 may beused to split or separate an adhesive portion of a protective material450 from a non-adhesive backing during the application process. Asshown, the roller apparatus 400 may be placed on the device 435 with theprotective material 450 wedged between the first roller 410 and theelectronic device 435. As the roller apparatus 400 is moved along thesurface of the electronic device 435, the splitter bar 415 exposes theadhesive portion of the protective material 450 prior to the firstroller 410 pressing the adhesive portion of the protective material 450down onto the surface of the electronic device 435. In addition, thenon-adhesive backing is removed during this process.

FIG. 5A illustrates one embodiment of a roller apparatus 500. The rollerapparatus 500 may include a body 505, a first roller 520, a secondroller 515, a splitter 510, a first pressing surface 525 and a secondpressing surface 530. In one embodiment, the roller apparatus 500 may beconstructed as one integrated piece. By integrating the first roller 520and the second roller 515, along with the splitter 510 into the body505, additional structural components may be eliminated. In oneembodiment, the first roller 520 and the second roller 515 may be rodmembers that might not rotate. In another embodiment, the first roller520 and the second roller 515 may be rotatable members.

FIG. 5B illustrates how the roller apparatus 500 may be used to apply afilm 550 onto a device 535. As shown, the roller apparatus 500 mayseparate a top non-adhesive portion of the film 550 from the adhesivebottom portion of the film 550 as the user presses on the first pressingsurface 525 and the second pressing surface 530 while moving the rollerapparatus 500 along the length of the device 535. During such anoperation, the splitter 510 may separate the adhesive and non-adhesiveportions of the film 550 while the rollers 520 and 515 may apply theadhesive portions of the film 550 to the surface of the device 535. Inthis embodiment, the device 535 may be sandwiched or be located betweenthe first roller 520 and the second roller 515. The first roller 520 maycontact the film 550 (as shown in FIG. 5B) on a first surface (e.g., ascreen) of the device 535 while the second roller 515 may contact asecond surface (e.g., a backing) of the device 535.

FIG. 6A illustrates a roller apparatus 600, an electronic device 635, afilm 650 and an optional film tab 695. The roller apparatus 600 may beused to apply the film 650 to a surface of the electronic device 635. Inone embodiment, the film tab 695 may be used to improve the ease ofapplying the film 650 as further discussed below.

FIG. 6B illustrates one embodiment of how the roller apparatus 600 mayappear when mounted on the electronic device 635, for example, during afilm application process. As shown, the roller apparatus 600 may have awidth wider than the width of the electronic device 635. In this manner,the roller apparatus 600 may be configured to apply films of varyingsizes onto devices of varying sizes (e.g., a tablet PC). In addition,the roller apparatus 600 may be configured to apply the film 650 to adevice with a curved surface (not shown).

However, distinct from the first operation configuration, the rollerapparatus 600 may be utilized in a second operation configuration tohold, secure, prop or otherwise position the electronic device 635 suchthat it may be easier for a user to view and/or use the electronicdevice 635. For instance, the roller apparatus 600 may be flipped overto a second operation configuration and rest on a flat surface and thelike to prop up the electronic device 635 and improve viewing angles ofthe electronic device 635 to a user. In this manner, the rollerapparatus 600 may have continued utility even after a film (e.g., film650) is applied by the roller apparatus 600 to the electronic device635. As shown in FIG. 6C, the electronic device 635 sits in an uprightmanner within a cavity of the roller apparatus 600. In one embodiment,the cavity is defined to be a space between a front bar and a firstroller.

FIG. 6D illustrates a side view of the roller apparatus 600 with theelectronic device 635 held in an upright manner. As shown in FIG. 6D,the electronic device 635 may sit angled while still being upright. Byvarying the width of the cavity (i.e., distance between the front barand the first roller), the positioning of the stand edge and the like,the viewing angle may be adjusted between 90 degrees and 135 degrees.For example, as shown in FIG. 6D, the electronic device 635 may be heldat an angle of 120 degrees as measured between a table surface and aviewing surface of the electronic device 635.

FIGS. 6E-6G illustrate one example of how the roller apparatus 600 maybe utilized to apply the film 650 onto a surface of the electronicdevice 635. As shown in FIG. 6E, the film tab 695 may be applied (andmay adhere) to the film 650 and held in a preliminary applicationposition by a user's hand near the surface of the electronic device 635.The film tab 695 may function to aid the user in lining up the film 650with the electronic device 635 and simplifying the application processsince the user may be able to handle a portion of the film tab 695without worrying about whether the film 650 will adhere to the user'sfingers during the application process. The roller apparatus 600 mightnot be engaged at this stage. In one embodiment, the film tab 695 may bepre-installed on the film 650 for the consumer's convenience.

Next, as shown by FIG. 6F, a portion of the adhesive portion 655 of thefilm 650 has been separated from a portion of the non-adhesive filmbacking 660, and has been pressed onto the surface of the electronicdevice 635. At this point of the film application process, the user mayretrieve the roller apparatus 600. The user may then utilize the rollerapparatus 600 and press the adhesive portion 655 of the film 650 to thesurface of the electronic device 635 with one hand while moving theroller apparatus 600 in a length-wise direction. Immediately proceedingthe moment when the roller apparatus 600 presses one section of theadhesive portion 655 of the film 650 onto the surface of the electronicdevice 635 to remove any air bubbles, the user may remove acorresponding section of the non-adhesive film backing 660 with theother hand in preparation. In this manner, the adhesive portion 655 ofthe film 650 may be applied to the surface of the electronic device 635.In addition, any air bubbles between the adhesive portion 655 and thesurface of the electronic device 635 resulting from the applicationprocess may be removed or squeezed out by the roller apparatus 600 beingpressed and maneuvered.

FIG. 6G illustrates an example of how the user may utilize the rollerapparatus 600 to apply the film 650 to the surface of the electronicdevice 635 while removing any air bubbles. Once the adhesive portion 655of the film 650 is applied to the surface of the electronic device 635,the film tab 695 may be removed by peeling (not shown) it from the film650. In this quick and efficient manner, the application process may becompleted.

FIG. 7A illustrates an embodiment of a roller apparatus 700 with anintegrated stand. The roller apparatus 700 may be an embodiment of theroller apparatus 600 of FIG. 6. As shown, the roller apparatus 700 maybe in a first operational position with rollers 710 and 715 in contactwith the flat surface beneath it (e.g., table). The roller apparatus 700may include a body or carriage 705 configured to provide structuralsupport for the rollers 710 and 715. The carriage 705 may includeattached or integrated handle portions 775, a mid bar 720 and twocontact edges 780 and 785 separated by the rollers 710 and 715. Therollers 710 and 715 may include inner and outer cores 755, 760 (shown inFIGS. 7B and 7C), 765 and 770). The carriage 705 may also include adevice insertion portion 795 for insertion of the electronic device(e.g., electronic device 635). However, the device insertion portion 795may be intended for usage when the roller apparatus 700 is flipped over,as shown in FIG. 7B.

In one embodiment, the handle portions 775 may be configured to allow auser to press down on the handle portions 775 to transfer pressure ontothe rollers 710 and 715 during a protective film application process.When the user presses down on the handle portions 775 and maneuvers theroller apparatus 700 along the length of a protective film (e.g., film650), a force may be transferred to the rollers 710 and 715, which inturn applies a pressure to the protective film (e.g., film 650)resulting in adherence of the film (e.g., film 650) to a surface (e.g.,a screen) of the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 635). Inaddition, any air bubbles may be eliminated due to the pressure appliedby the rollers 710 and 715.

The carriage 705 may be constructed out of a rigid material such as aplastic, a metal, a wood and the like. In addition, the carriage 705 maybe sized to be easily graspable and manipulated by a user's hand. Thecarriage 705 may be configured to hold the first roller 710 in place andallow the first roller 710 to “roll” or rotate about a longitudinal axiscreated by the carriage 705. In one example, the carriage 705 may bestructured to include a rod member (not shown) spanning the entirelength of the first roller 710, thereby forming an axis for the firstroller 710 to rotate about. In another example, the carriage 705 mayinclude two insertion portions opposite each other for inserting arotational member of a first roller 710.

The first roller 710 may be configured to apply physical pressure on afilm (e.g., film 650) in operation. The second roller 715 may be aredundant pressure applicator and may be substantially the same size as,and parallel to the first roller 710. The first roller 710 and thesecond roller 715 may be separated by a mid bar 720. The mid bar 720 mayconnect the two ends of the carriage 705 and provide the entire rollerapparatus 700 with stability. In addition, gaps between the mid bar 720and the rollers 710 and 715 may allow the rollers 710 and 715 to rotatefreely without contacting the mid bar 720.

In one embodiment, the roller apparatus 700 may be configured tofunction as a film applicator for phone-sized devices and may have alength of 1-2 inches, a width of 2-4 inches, and a height of 0.5-1inches. In one embodiment, the roller apparatus 700 may be configured tofunction as a film applicator for tablet-sized devices and may have alength of 1-5 inches, a width of 8-12 inches, and a height of 0.5-2inches. Other dimensions are also possible depending on the size of thedevice to be protected and/or the size of the film to be applied.

In one embodiment, the mid bar 720 may be curved or straight, and mayhave a length substantially equivalent to the length of the rollers 710and 715, thereby joining the two ends of the carriage 705. Additionally,the mid bar 720 may be configured have a width shorter than a diameterof the outer cores 765 and 770. In this manner, the mid bar 720 providesstructural support to the roller apparatus 700 without contacting thefilm (e.g., film 750) or the device (e.g., electronic device 735) duringthe film application process.

In one embodiment, the contact edge 780 may be raised and further awayfrom the flat surface (e.g., the table) than, for example, the rollers710 and 715 when the roller apparatus 700 is positioned as shown in FIG.7A.

As shown in FIG. 7B, when the roller apparatus 700 is flipped over, thecontact edge 780 raises the rollers 710 and 715 off a flat surface(e.g., a table) and also orients the device insertion portion 795 suchthat insertion and propping of the electronic device (e.g., electronicdevice 635) is possible. As more clearly shown in FIG. 7C, when theroller apparatus 700 is in this position, the second roller 715 may beraised off the table and may allow for the electronic device (e.g.,electronic device 635) to rest on an outer core 770 of the second roller715. More particularly, the electronic device (e.g., the electronicdevice 635) may be contacted on a first surface by the second roller 715and contacted on a second surface by the stand portion 790 as it sitswithin the insertion portion 795. In one embodiment, the stand portion790 may be a flat panel having a length substantially similar to alength of the first roller 710 and the second roller 715. As shown, thestand portion 790 may be offset from the first roller 710 and the secondroller 715. In other words, the stand portion 790 may be separated fromthe first roller 710 and the second roller 715 by a gap constituting thedevice insertion portion 795.

FIG. 7C is a side perspective view of the roller apparatus 700 in itssecond operation configuration. As shown, the rollers 710 and 715 mayinclude the inner cores 755 and 760, respectively. In addition, therollers 710 and 715 may include the outer cores 765 and 770,respectively. In one embodiment, the inner cores 755 and 760 may beconstructed out of the same material (e.g., a rigid material such asmetal, wood, and a hard plastic). Similarly, the outer cores 765 and 770may be constructed out of the same material (e.g., rubber, a softplastic, an encapsulated gel, etc.) or a softer material. In oneembodiment, the material used to construct the inner cores 755 and 760may be the same as the material used to construct the outer cores 765and 770. However, the densities of the material may be different. Forexample, the materials used to construct the outer cores 765 and 770 maybe less dense and/or have a lower durometer rating. By having softerouter cores 765 and 770, the roller apparatus 700 may be able to pressthe film onto the device (e.g., electronic device 635) without damagingthe surface. In one embodiment, the outer cores 765 and 770 may beconfigured to “flatten” at the point of contact and thereby providingpressure in a more uniform and distributed manner, efficientlyeliminating air bubbles. The outer cores 765 and 770 may be configuredto return to its original configuration when not pressed to the surfaceof the device (e.g., electronic device 635).

FIG. 7D and FIG. 7E show other various views of one embodiment of theroller apparatus 700.

FIG. 8A illustrates a roller apparatus 800 with an integrated stand in afirst operation configuration according to another embodiment of thepresent invention. Generally, the roller apparatus 800 may functionsimilarly to roller apparatus 600 and 700. More particularly, FIG. 8Aillustrates the roller apparatus 800 in position to perform a filmapplication process to apply a film 850 to the top surface of anelectronic device 835. As shown, the roller apparatus 800 may have awidth wider than the width of the electronic device 835. In this manner,the roller apparatus 800 may be configured to apply films of varyingsizes onto devices of varying sizes (e.g., a tablet PC). In addition,the roller apparatus 800 may be configured to apply the film 850 to adevice with a curved surface (not shown). Here, in preparing to applythe film 850 to the electronic device 835, the film 850 may be placed onthe surface of the electronic device 835 with a film tab 896 positionedbetween the film 850 and the surface of the electronic device 835 to beprotected. Further details of the structure of the roller apparatus 800and the film application process are discussed below with respect toFIGS. 8C-8G.

However, as shown in FIG. 8B, distinct from the first operationconfiguration, the roller apparatus 800 may be utilized in a secondoperation configuration to hold, secure, prop or otherwise position theelectronic device 835 such that it may be easier for a user to viewand/or use the electronic device 835. For instance, the roller apparatus800 may be flipped over to a second operation configuration and rest ona flat surface and the like to prop up the electronic device 835 andimprove viewing angles of the electronic device 835 to a user. In thismanner, the roller apparatus 800 may have continued utility even after afilm (e.g., film 850) is applied by the roller apparatus 800 to theelectronic device 835. As shown in FIG. 8B, the electronic device 835sits in an upright manner within a cavity of the roller apparatus 800.In one embodiment, the cavity is defined to be a space or opening withinthe roller apparatus 800.

FIG. 8C illustrates a perspective bottom view of the roller apparatus800 with an integrated stand. One main difference between the rollerapparatus 800 and the roller apparatus 600 and 700 is that the formerfurther includes a slit or slot 825 for receiving and guiding the film(e.g., film 850 shown in FIG. 8B) during the film application process.As shown, the roller apparatus 800 may include a body 805 comprising afirst side panel 806, a second side panel 807 integrated with a standportion 808 having the slit 825. The first side panel 806 and secondside panel 807 may be substantially parallel and include holes oropenings to hold therebetween a first roller 815 and a second roller 820and to allow the rollers 815 and 820 to rotate during usage to apply thefilm. The first roller 815 and the second roller 820 may be separated bya mid portion. The first roller 815 and the second roller 820 may besimilar to the other first and second rollers described herein (e.g.,first and second rollers 715 and 720). The side panels 806 and 807 mayeach integrate a pressing portion (e.g., pressing portion 876—the otherpressing portion is hidden from view) to allow the user to press on andthereby exert pressure on the rollers 815 and 820 during the filmapplication process. The roller apparatus 800 may also include a contactedge 890 and a non-contact edge 895 to define how the roller apparatus800 is positioned to be operable in the second operation configuration.The contact edge 890 is operatively configured to contact a tablesurface and position the roller apparatus 800 to be able to receive andhold upright the electronic device 835. As is shown, the non-contactedge 895 might not contact either the electronic device or the tablesurface in the second operation configuration.

The operational configurations and the structure of the roller apparatus800 having been described, attention will now be turned to the filmapplication process. As shown in FIG. 8D, the user may position the film850 having the backing still attached substantially in the position thatthe film 850 would be in after application. Here, the film 850 may betemporarily adhered to the electronic device 835 via a film tab 896.When positioned as shown, the user may bend the non-adhered portion ofthe film and move it towards the slit 825 of the roller apparatus 800.

FIG. 8E illustrates the film 850 as inserted through the slit 825. Asshown in FIG. 8F, as the film 835 is inserted through the slit 825, thefilm tab 896 becomes exposed to the user. With one hand holding theroller apparatus 800, the user may use his or her other hand to beginpulling the film tab 896 in the direction shown by arrow 855 andseparate the protective layer of the film from the backing. As shown inFIG. 8G, as the user continues to pull the film tab 896 with one handand exposes the protective layer of the film, the user may begin to movethe roller apparatus 800 with the other hand also in the direction shownby arrow 855 to press the exposed portion of the protective layer to theelectronic device 835. In this manner, the user may progressively applythe protective layer to the electronic device 835 until the protectivelayer is completely separated from the backing and completely applied tothe electronic device 835. Optionally, the user may use the rollerapparatus 800 to further redundantly press the protective layer toensure a thorough application. As discussed above, even after thecompletion of the application process, the roller apparatus 800 maystill retain utility as a device stand (e.g., described as the secondoperational configuration).

Any of the roller apparatus as discussed herein may be used to apply aprotective film onto the surface of a mobile communication device.However, to further assist the user in applying the protective film, aroller apparatus guide 900 may be used in conjunction with a rollerapparatus (e.g., roller apparatus 800).

As illustrated in FIG. 9A, the roller apparatus guide 900 may beconstructed out of materials such as polycarbonate, metal, wood (e.g., acardboard or thick paper) or any combinations thereof. The rollerapparatus guide 900 may be a substantially rectangular block havingthree or more portions including an inner wall 905 defining a cavity 925used to receive or mount a mobile communication device, a rollersupporting surface 910 configured to be flush with a mounted mobilecommunication device and a set of roller guiding rails 915 which may beparallel to one another and raised above the roller supporting surface910. In addition, the roller apparatus guide 900 may include pressingportions 920 to assist the user when applying the protective film. Asshown, the roller apparatus guide 900 may be configured to fit aparticular mobile communication device with a distinct length, width andheight. However, one of ordinary skill will understand that the rollerapparatus guide 900 may be designed to fit any mobile communicationdevice of any length, width and height. Indeed, the cavity 925 formed bythe inner wall 905 may be sized to be substantially the same as themobile communication device to be protected. The fit of the mobilecommunication device within the cavity 925 may be important to ensurethat the applied protective film is correctly positioned.

In one embodiment, the cavity 925 formed by the inner wall 905 may beclosed on a back side by a thin backing layer spanning the length andwidth of the cavity 925. The thin backing layer may be integrated intothe body of the apparatus guide 900 and constructed out of the same ordifferent material. In this implementation, the cavity 925 may be formedby the inner wall 905 and the thin backing layer and the depth of thecavity 925 may be designed to maintain the feature of the mobilecommunication device being flush with the top surface of the apparatusguide 900 when placed into the cavity 925. In this manner, the user maybe able to use the apparatus guide 900 in various situations where aflat support surface is not readily available.

In one embodiment, the roller apparatus guide 900 may include differentremovable and insertable portions to enable the roller apparatus guide900 to fit multiple devices depending on which portions are inserted.For example, consider a first device having dimensions of 5 inches longby 4 inches wide by 1 inch thick and a second device having dimensionsof 3 inches long by 2 inches wide by 1 inch thick. The cavity 925 of theroller apparatus guide 900 may initially be designed to fit the largerfirst device, but not the smaller second device. However, when a moldedportion of 5 inches long by 4 inches wide by 1 inch thick having acavity 925 that is 3 inches long by 2 inches wide by 1 inch thick isinserted in the cavity 925 of the roller apparatus guide 900, theresulting roller apparatus guide 900 may then be utilized to fit thesmaller second device. Other molded portions may be swapped in and outdepending on the size and shape of the mobile communication device.Alternatively, the user may include further additional portions orremove inserted portions as desired to fit the particular devices. Inthis manner, roller apparatus guide 900 may be versatile and cater todifferent mobile communication devices of different sizes.

The structure of the roller apparatus guide 900 having been described,attention will now be turned to the functionality as shown in FIGS.9B-9H.

FIG. 9B illustrates the roller apparatus guide 900, a film 950 to beapplied, and a mobile communication device 935. The film 950 may betemporarily held to the roller apparatus guide 900 via an adhesive (notshown). As the film 950 is sized to correspond to the mobilecommunication device 935 (which is to be inserted or mounted by theroller apparatus guide 900), the film 950 may freely move in and out ofthe cavity 925 as shown.

FIG. 9C illustrates the roller apparatus guide 900 fully mounted on themobile communication device 935, and with the film 950 in aready-to-be-applied position. While roller 700 is shown in FIG. 9C, anyroller may be used in conjunction with the roller apparatus guide 900.The roller 700 may be placed at the top of the roller apparatus guide900, with the film-contacting outer cores held between the rollerguiding rails 915. The distance between the roller guiding rails 915 maybe configured to be the same as the length of the roller 700 therebyforming a path for the movement of the roller 700 along a surface of themobile communication device 935. In other words, the roller guidingrails 915 create a pathway to prevents the roller 700 from veering offthe intended positional direction of application, and thus ensuring thatthe film 950 is applied at a correct position and providing a simplifiedmethodology for imparting the desired precision during the filmapplication process.

As shown in FIG. 9D, after the user pulls a film tab 996 to expose theprotective layer of the film 950 and as the user begins to move theroller 700 from one end of the mobile communication device 935 to theother end of the mobile communication device 935 in the direction ofarrow 955, the backing of the film 950 is automatically removed whilethe exposed protective film is applied to the mobile communicationdevice 935.

FIG. 9E illustrates the roller 700 as the user is about to concludeapplication of the film 950. As shown, the film backing of the film 950is substantially separated from the applied portion of the film 950. Asshown in FIG. 9F, after the user finishes using the roller 700 to applythe film when the electronic device 935 is situated within the rollerguide apparatus 900, the user may remove any adhesive tabs that may havebeen used to attach the film 900 to the roller guide apparatus 900 forease of positioning of the film 950 during the application process.

As shown in FIG. 9G, the user may remove the mobile communication device935 from the roller apparatus guide 900 by simply popping it out orlifting the roller apparatus guide 900 off the mobile communicationdevice 935. If desired, the user may use the roller 700 and reinforcethe applied film in the manner shown in FIG. 9H.

FIG. 10A illustrates a system including a roller apparatus 1075 (whichmay be, for example, the roller apparatus 800, 700, 600, etc.), a rollerapparatus guide 1000 (which may be, for example, the roller apparatus900), a mobile communication device 1035, a protective film 1050 (with abacking portion 1060) to be applied to a mobile communication device1035, and a wedge 1080. Unlike the embodiment illustrated in FIGS.9A-9G, a wedge 1080 is incorporated in FIG. 10A to help the user applythe film 1050 to the mobile communication device 1035. While not drawnto scale, in one embodiment, a length 1081 of the wedge 1080 may beconfigured to fit within a distance 1001 between rails 1002.

FIG. 10B illustrates the wedge 1080 apart from the previously describedportions of the film application system. The wedge 1080 may besubstantially triangular in shape, although minor variations are allowedprovided that the functionality of the wedge 1080 remains (as describedwith respect to FIGS. 10E-10I). The wedge 1080 may comprise threeadjacent, connected surfaces 1085, 1090 and 1093 forming the structureof the wedge 1080. The spacing 1095 created by the connecting ofsurfaces 1085, 1090 and 1093 may be hollow or, in one embodiment, may befilled. As illustrated in FIGS. 10C-10D, the surfaces 1085, 1090 and1093 may be substantially flat and may have surface areas that are equalor different to one another (e.g., the surface area of the surface 1093may be 50% smaller than the surface area of the surface 1085 and/or1090).

As shown in FIG. 10E, the acute angle 1096 created between surfaces 1085and 1090 may be in the range of 0-90°, but preferably between 5-15°. Theangle 1096 is selected to allow the wedge 1080 to be manipulated by theroller 1075 during the application process.

Any of a plurality of materials including paper, cardboard, plastic,metal, wood, or combination thereof may be used to construct the wedge1080 to facilitate the main functionality of the wedge 1080. The usermay initially separate the backing 1060 of the protective film 1050 bypushing the roller apparatus 1075 into the wedge. Advantageously, theuser does not need to manually peel the backing 1060, and instead mayrely on the wedge 1080, thereby simplifying the process for the user. Inother words, the user can simply install the protective film 1050 bymoving the roller apparatus 1075 in one smooth, continuous motion.

FIGS. 10F-10J illustrate how the wedge 1080 may be used with the rollerapparatus 1075 and the roller guiding apparatus 1000 to apply the film1050 to the mobile communication device 1035.

As illustrated in FIG. 10F, initially, the wedge 1080 may be positionedbetween the film 1050 and the mobile communication device 1035 after themobile communication device 1035 is mounted by the roller guidingapparatus 1000. Here, the roller apparatus 1075 is placed at the top ofthe roller guiding apparatus 1000. As shown, in this position, the film1050 is separated from the surface of the mobile communication device1035 by the wedge 1080. In this initial position, the surface 1090 ofthe wedge 1080 contacts the top of the mobile communication device 1035and/or the top of the roller guiding apparatus 1000 while the othersurface 1085 of the wedge 1080 contacts the film 1050. In addition, thesurface 1085 adheres to a backing of film 1050 which assists the filmapplication process as illustrated in the following figures.

FIG. 10G illustrates the behavior of the wedge. As user moves the rollerapparatus 1075 across the roller guiding apparatus 1000 in the directionshown by arrow 1095, the roller apparatus 1075 places pressure on thefilm 1050 and/or the wedge 1080. This in turn causes the surface 1090 tobegin to move away from the top surface of the mobile communicationdevice 1035 and/or the top of the roller guiding apparatus 1000, whilethe surface 1085 continues to adhere to the backing of the film 1050.Furthermore, the configuration of the wedge 1080 and the attachment tothe backing portion 1060 of the film 1050 lends itself to be flippedupwards as shown in FIG. 10G.

As the user continues to move the roller apparatus 1075 in the directionof arrow 1095, the backing portion 1060 of the film 1050 begins toseparate from the portion of the film to be applied to the mobilecommunication device 1035 and at this position, the wedge 1080 is nolonger in contact with the surface of the mobile communication device1035. Instead, the wedge 1080 is separated from the top of the mobilecommunication device by the backing of the film 1050 as shown in FIG.10H.

FIG. 10I illustrates how the wedge 1080 works with the roller apparatus1075 to separate the backing portion 1060 of the film 1050 and appliesthe exposed protective portion of the film 1050 onto the mobilecommunication device 1035. As the user continues to move the rollerapparatus 1075 in the direction of arrow 1095, the pressure exerted bythe roller apparatus 1075 causes the wedge 1080 to “flip over” such thatthe backing portion 1060, which still adheres on one side to the surface1085 of the wedge 1080, is pulled away from the protective portion ofthe film 1050. In addition, the portion of the film 1050 that remains tobe separated is kept out of the way by resting on the edge between thesurfaces 1090 and 1093 of the wedge.

As the user manipulates the roller apparatus 1075 from the positionshown in FIG. 10I from the end proximal to the initial position and downthrough the rails 1002 of the roller apparatus guide 1000 to completethe film application process, the roller apparatus 1077 continues toapply force that moves the wedge 1080 away from its initial position asshown in FIG. 10J. Eventually, the wedge 1080 and the attached backingportion 1060 of the film 1050 may be completely separated from theprotective portion of the film 1050 applied to the mobile communicationdevice 1035, thereby completing the film application process.

In the manner described, the wedge 1080 may be utilized to assist theuser to apply a film 1050 to a mobile communication device 1035 inconjunction with the roller apparatus 1075 and the roller guidingapparatus 1000.

Skilled artisans may implement the described functionality in varyingways for each particular application, but such implementation decisionsshould not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of thedisclosed apparatus and/or methods.

The previous description of examples is provided to enable any person ofordinary skill in the art to make or use the disclosed methods andapparatus. Various modifications to these examples will be readilyapparent to those skilled in the art, and the principles defined hereinmay be applied to other examples without departing from the spirit orscope of the disclosed method and apparatus. The elements and uses ofthe above-described embodiments can be rearranged and combined inmanners other than specifically described above, with any and allpermutations within the scope of invention. The described embodimentsare to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and notrestrictive and the scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated bythe appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. Allchanges which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of theclaims are to be embraced within their scope. In addition, the inventionis not limited to the illustrated embodiments, and all embodiments ofthe invention need not necessarily achieve all the advantages orpurposes or possess all characteristics identified herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system comprising: an apparatus including: oneor more side surfaces defining an area for receiving a mobilecommunication device and extending from a bottom of the area to an upperboundary of the area to define a depth of the area, and a portion of theapparatus positioned outside of the area; a backing layer of a screenprotector; a protective layer of the screen protector, the protectivelayer being affixed to the backing layer and having a first end and asecond end and a length therebetween, with the second end configured toextend away from the first end such that the length of the protectivelayer extends along a length of the area, with the protective layerbeing sized to fit within the area, and the protective layer configuredto be applied to a screen of the mobile communication device when thebacking layer is separated from the protective layer; and a tab having afirst portion and a second portion, the first portion of the tabconfigured to couple to the portion of the apparatus, and the secondportion of the tab configured to couple to the protective layer tothereby couple the protective layer to the portion of the apparatus andsandwich the protective layer between the second portion of the tab andthe backing layer, and the tab configured to couple to the portion ofthe apparatus such that the first portion of the tab and the protectivelayer each remain coupled to the portion of the apparatus while thebacking layer is being separated from the protective layer.
 2. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the one or more side surfaces include fourside surfaces defining a rectangular shape of the area.
 3. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the portion of the apparatus comprises a tab receivingportion.
 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the tab is configured tocouple to the portion of the apparatus to align the protective layerover the screen of the mobile communication device when the mobilecommunication device is positioned in the area.
 5. The system of claim1, wherein the tab is configured to attach to the protective layer suchthat the tab separates from the backing layer when the backing layer isseparated from the protective layer.
 6. The system of claim 1, whereinthe screen protector is configured such that the backing layer ispositioned between the protective layer and the mobile communicationdevice when the mobile communication device is positioned in the areaand the screen protector extends over the mobile communication device.7. The system of claim 1, wherein the first portion of the tab isconfigured to directly couple to the portion of the apparatus and thesecond portion of the tab is configured to directly couple to theprotective layer.
 8. A method of applying a protective layer to a screenof a mobile communication device, the method comprising: inserting themobile communication device into an area of an apparatus, the area beingdefined by one or more side surfaces; providing a screen protectorcoupled to a tab, the screen protector including a backing layer and aprotective layer sandwiched between the backing layer and the tab;separating the backing layer of the screen protector from the protectivelayer while the protective layer remains attached to the tab; andapplying the protective layer to the screen of the mobile communicationdevice while the mobile communication device is positioned in the areaand the protective layer remains attached to the tab, to cover thescreen of the mobile communication device.
 9. The method of claim 8,wherein applying the protective layer to the screen of the mobilecommunication device includes positioning the protective layer on thescreen of the mobile communication device while the protective layerremains attached to the tab.
 10. The method of claim 8, wherein applyingthe protective layer to the screen of the mobile communication deviceincludes positioning the protective layer between the tab and the screenof the mobile communication device.
 11. The method of claim 8, whereinapplying the protective layer to the screen of the mobile communicationdevice includes pressing the protective layer to the screen of themobile device.
 12. The method of claim 8, further comprising separatingthe tab from the protective layer after the protective layer has beenapplied to the screen of the mobile communication device.
 13. The methodof claim 8, wherein the one or more side surfaces define a depth of thearea.
 14. A system comprising: an apparatus including: an inner walldefining a cavity configured to receive a mobile communication device,and a portion of the apparatus positioned outside of the cavity; abacking layer of a screen protector; a protective layer of the screenprotector, the protective layer being affixed to the backing layer andhaving a first end and a second end and a length therebetween, with thesecond end configured to extend away from the first end such that thelength of the protective layer extends along a length of the cavity,with the protective layer being sized to fit within the cavity, and theprotective layer configured to be applied to a screen of the mobilecommunication device when the backing layer is separated from theprotective layer; and a tab having a first portion and a second portion,the first portion of the tab configured to couple to the portion of theapparatus, and the second portion of the tab configured to couple to theprotective layer to thereby couple the protective layer to the portionof the apparatus and sandwich the protective layer between the secondportion of the tab and the backing layer, and the tab configured tocouple to the portion of the apparatus such that the first portion ofthe tab and the protective layer each remain coupled to the portion ofthe apparatus while the backing layer is being separated from theprotective layer.
 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the inner walldefines a depth of the cavity.
 16. The system of claim 14, wherein theinner wall includes one or more side surfaces.
 17. The system of claim16, wherein the one or more side surfaces include four side surfacesdefining a rectangular shape of the cavity.
 18. The system of claim 14,wherein the inner wall extends from a bottom of the cavity to an upperboundary of the cavity, and the portion of the apparatus extends outwardfrom the upper boundary of the cavity.
 19. The system of claim 14,wherein the protective layer is configured to be applied to the screenwith an adhesive.
 20. The system of claim 14, wherein the tab isconfigured to removably couple to the portion of the apparatus with anadhesive.